November 15 Birthday: Georgia O'Keeffe

Georgia O'Keeffe, artist
Nov. 15, 1887-Mar. 6, 1986

My Name is Georgia: A Portrait by Jeanette Winter (Silver Whistle, 1998)

From the age of twelve, O'Keeffe knew she wanted to be an artist. Using O'Keeffe's own words within the text as well as O'Keeffe-like illustrations, readers are in for a vivid look at an interesting life.

The O'Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico, offers an online look at some of her amazing work.

November 14 Birthdays: Robert Fulton, Claude Monet and William Steig

Robert Fulton, inventor
Nov. 14, 1765-Feb. 24, 1815

Robert Fulton: From Submarine to Steamboat by Steven Kroll, illustrated by Bill Farnsworth (Holiday House, 1999)

Fulton's name is synonymous with steamboats. But first he was a sign painter, air-gun inventor and apprentice jeweler. Read all about his life and inventions in this picture book biography.

An article about Robert Fulton and the War of 1812 is posted at Casebook.org.

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Claude Monet, artist
Nov 14, 1840-Dec. 5, 1926

A Blue Butterfly: A Story About Claude Monet by Bijou Le Tord (Doubleday, 1995)

In the style of Monet's work, Le Tord uses impressionistlike paintings to illustrate this snapshot of his later years.

View Monet images at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco Museums, including one of the famous Water Lilies paintings.

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William Steig, writer and illustrator
Nov. 14, 1907-Oct. 3, 2003

When Everyone Wore a Hat by William Steig (Joanna Colter Books, 2003)

In this picture book autobiography, Steig looked at the year he was eight, when the world was at war, and he had dreams for the future.

A cartoonist for the New Yorker, Steig was in his 60s when he began writing and illustrating children's books. Stop by the Official Site of William Steig for articles on Steig, his books, reading guides and more.

November 13 Birthday: Robert Louis Stevenson

Robert Louis Stevenson, writer
Nov. 13, 1850-Dec. 3, 1894

Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)

Treasure Island, Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Stevenson penned these classics and more. He suffered from tuberculosis and wrote mostly in bed. A Scot, he eventually settled in Samoa.

Want to listen to a classic read aloud? Download Treasure Island at Librivox.org, a site dedicated to promoting recordings in the Public Domain.

November 12 Birthday: Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Elizabeth Cady Stanton, social activist
Nov. 12, 1815-Oct. 26, 1902

Elizabeth Leads the Way: Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Right to Vote by Tanya Lee Stone illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon (Henry Holt & Company, 2008)

As a child, Elizabeth Cady wanted to do “anything any boy could.” And she did. As an adult, Stanton and others proposed women should have the vote. Millions of women took up the cause, and eighteen years after her death, Stanton’s dream became law.

Find the papers of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony at the Rutgers site dedicated to findings and publishing their work.

November 11 Birthday: LaVern Baker

LaVern Baker, musician
Nov. 11, 1929-Mar. 10, 1997

Shake, Rattle and Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)

"Tweedle Dee," a top song recorded in 1954 and "Jim Dandy," a 1956 hit made Baker, a jazz-and-R&B-vocalist-turned-rocker famous. As an African American, Baker suffered backlash from her early records being labeled "race records." But she continued to record and eventually the barriers came down.

Read more about Baker's life and music at a site dedicated to her.

November 9 Birthday: Benjamin Banneker

Benjamin Banneker, mathematican & astronomer
Nov. 9, 1731-Oct. 9, 1806

Dear Benjamin Banneker by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney (Voyager, 1998)

Banneker, an 18th century free African American was passionate about learning. Aside from excelling professionally in the fields of math and astronomy, he published an almanac and corresponded with Thomas Jefferson about slavery. Brian Pinkney's hallmark style—scratchboard—illuminates this story.

Go to the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum in Baltimore to learn more about this multi-talented man.

November 7 Birthdays: Alexa Canady and Marie Curie

Alexa Canady, physician
Nov. 7, 1950-

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Canady was the first black female neurosurgeon in the U.S. and has won numerous awards for her work. This collective biography includes a photograph and one-page biography of her.

Read more about Canady on a site celebrating Women's History Month.

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Marie Curie, physicist and chemist
Nov. 7, 1867-July 4, 1934

Marie Curie by Leonard Everett Fisher (Atheneum, 1994)

Life as a pioneering scientist was not easy but Curie, a Polish-French pioneer in radioactivity persevered and ultimately won two Nobel Peace Prizes for her efforts.

Visit the Nobel Winners site to read more about Curie.

Unknown Birthday: George Crum

George Crum, chef
1822-July 22, 1914

George Crum and the Saratoga Chip by Gayila Taylor, illustrated by Frank Morrison (Lee & Low, 2006)

Thank you, George Crum. For inventing a most tasty treat. August 24 is National Potato Chip Day, though by all accounts, Americans celebrate potato chips every day of the year. Crum, part African-American and part Native America is the king of snack-makers.

The Lemelson-MIT Program hightlighted George Crum as an Inventor of the Week earlier this year.

November 4 Birthdays: James Earle Fraser and Will Rogers

James Earle Fraser, sculptor
Nov. 4, 1876-Oct. 11, 1953

The Buffalo Nickel by Taylor Morrison (Houghton Mifflin, 2002)

This is the story of Fraser's life and work, and in particular, his design of the nickel depicting a buffalo on one side and a Plains Indian chief on the other. Fascinating.

Visit Wikipedia to view images of Fraser's other work.

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Will Rogers, humorist, social commentator, actor
Nov. 4, 1879-Aug. 15, 1935

Will Rogers: An American Legend by Frank Keating, illustrated by Mike Wimmer (Silver Whistle/Harcourt, 2002)

Born in Oklahoma of Cherokee heritage, Rogers's wit and wisdom are highlighted as quotes of his are woven throughout this story of his life. Amazing artwork!

The Official Site of Will Rogers offers a biography, fast facts, photos, quotes and more.

November 2 Birthdays: Marie Antionette, Warren G. Harding and James Polk

Marie Antoinette, politician
Nov. 2, 1755-Oct. 16, 1793

Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)

The queen of France at nineteen, Marie Antoinette ruled for almost twenty years. One of her most famous quotes? "Let them eat cake."

Visit PBS.org to learn more about Antionette.

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Warren G. Harding, U.S. President
Nov. 2, 1865-Aug. 2, 1923

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

This one-termer was the 29th president of the U.S. Krull offers a paragraph of tidbits about his life.

For more information about Harding, visit the Harding Home in Ohio.

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James Polk, U.S. President
Nov. 2, 1795-June 15, 1849

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt(Harcourt, 1998)

Another one-termer, Polk was the 11th president of the U.S. The tradition of playing "Hail to the Chief" when a president enters a room began with him. One paragraph describes his life of work in this collective biography.

Read Polk's Inaugural address on March 4, 1845 at the Avalon Project at Yale.

October 30 Birthdays: John Adams and Charles Atlas

John Adams, U.S. President
Oct. 30, 1735-July 4, 1826

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

An early riser, this president had the longest life of any in this office. Adams was the 2nd U.S. president, served one term and had a horse named Cleopatra.

Read more about Adams at the WhiteHouse.gov page devoted to him.

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Charles Atlas, athlete
Oct. 30, 1892-Dec. 23, 1972

Strong Man: The Story of Charles Atlas by Meghan McCarthy (Knopf, 2007)

Angelo Siciliano was a one-man revolution for fitness. Tired of being a weak and skinny kid, Angelo embarked on a quest for physical health. A trip to a local museum where he saw a statue of Hercules, and a visit to his favorite thinking place, the zoo, where he watched a lion stretch his muscles fueled Siciliano's inspiration. He took a new name to go with his new muscles—Charles Atlas—and was ultimately named “The World’s Most Perfectly Developed Man.” Atlas inspired millions to exercise, eat right and live right.

Print out a copy of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans [PDF Version - 7.8 MB) to learn more about keeping healthy.

October 28 Birthday: Lady Liberty

Lady Liberty, statue extraordinaire
Oct. 28, 1886 dedication

Lady Liberty: A Biography by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Matt Tavares (Candlewick Press, 2008)

Vignettes written from the perspective of those who created the Statue of Liberty offer moving accounts of her inspiring story. From Edouard De Laboulaye, a professor of law in France who dreamed of giving this birthday gift from his country; to Emma Lazarus, who wrote a poem in Liberty’s honor; to Florence De Foreest, a young girl who was one of more than 100,000 people in America who contributed to the campaign to raise funds; this is a story of honor and hope and love. One of the best book cover designs, ever. And the interior art is glorious, too.

You can visit the Statue of Liberty online. Take a look at the beautiful photo gallery, read about Lady Liberty’s history and take the Junior Ranger Program self-guided program for kids.

Unknown Birthday: George Washington Carver

George Washington Carver, scientist
c. 1864-Jan. 5, 1943

A Weed is a Flower: The Life of George Washington Carver by Aliki (Aladdin, 1988)

Born a slave, George Washington Carver loved to learn and became one of America's most important agriculturists.

Visit the George Washington Carver National Monument in Missouri preserved by the National Park Service.

October 27 Birthdays: Ruby Dee, Theodore Roosevelt and Nawal El Sadaawi

Ruby Dee, actress and activist
Oct. 27, 1924-

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Dee's Broadway debut in South Pacific was in 1943. Dee was and is an advocate for social issues of our times.

Read a biographical sketch of Ruby Dee and listen to an interview with her and her late husband, Ossie Davis on the PBS African American World site.

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Theodore Roosevelt, U.S. President
Oct. 27, 1858-Jan. 6, 1919

Theodore by Frank Keating, illustrated by Mike Wimmer (Paula Wiseman Books/Simon & Schuster, 2006)

The oil-on-canvas illustrations in this book should be hanging in an art museum. Wow. This biography of Teddy Roosevelt, told in his own words, offered me more than facts. I felt as if I also knew Roosevelt's heart

The Theodore Roosevelt Association hosts a web site devoted to TR. Teddy and the Children's Room

Also check out the Smithsonian exhibit: Theodore Roosevelt: Icon of the American Century.

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Nawal El Sadaawi, advocate
Oct. 27, 1931-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005

"N" is for Nawal, in this collective biography about women. El Sadaawi is an advocate for women's rights, doctor and writer. Born in Egypt, she was imprisioned for her views of Arab women but has been released.

Visit Nawalsaadawi.net for more info.

October 26 Birthday: Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson, musician
Oct. 26, 1911-Jan. 27, 1972

The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2001)

Renowned gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson "brought the blues feeling into church music." Born in New Orleans, she moved to the city of Chicago when she was a teenager. It was there that Jackson found her voice.

America's Library has a small feature on Mahalia Jackson with photos that would be of great interest to children.

October 25 Birthday: Admiral Richard Byrd

Admiral Richard Byrd, explorer
Oct. 25, 1888-Mar. 11, 1957

Black Whiteness by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Walter Lyon Krudop (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 1998)

This is a harrowing account of the 1934 Antarctic winter Byrd spent alone at the South Pole. Brrrrr.

See what's happening today at the South Pole at the Southpolestation.com web site.

October 23 Birthdays: Gertrude Ederle, Pele and Victoria Woodhull

Gertrude Ederle, athlete
Oct. 23, 1906-Nov. 30, 2003

America's Champion Swimmer: Gertrude Ederle by David A. Adler, illustrated by Terry Widener (Harcourt, 2000, Voyager, 2005 reprint)

It's twenty-one miles across the English Channel and in 1926, an American named Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to successfully swim across it. In the process she beat the men's record by almost two hours.

Sports Illustrated for Women named Ederle one of the Top 100 Women Athletes.

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Pele, athlete
Oct. 23, 1940-

Young Pele: Soccer’s First Star by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2007)

Soccer was Pele’s passion from an early age. He played and dreamed and dreamed and played, all the while honing his skills and talent. When he finally had the opportunity to play in a youth soccer tournament, he saw that it would be possible for him, a child from humble means, to achieve his goal.

ESPN posts a biography of the "King of Futbol" on their site.

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Victoria Woodhull, politician
Oct. 23, 1838-June 9, 1927

Woman for President: The Story of Virginia Woodhull by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Jane Dyer (Walker, 2006 reprint)

Woodhull's run for president in 1872 is a fascinating part of American history. In this race, women's rights were raised to a new level. Her eclectic background: fortune-teller, newspaper owner and investment business owner, to name only a few of her talents also make Woodhull a woman to be remembered.

"Who is Victoria Woodhull?" offers more information about this political pioneer.

October 21 Birthdays: Celia Cruz, Dizzy Gillespie and Ursula Le Guin

Celia Cruz, musician
Oct. 21, 1925-July 16, 2003

Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa by Veronica Chambers, illustrated by Julie Maren (Dial, 2005)

When this salsa superstar was a child, her neighbors crowded the street to hear her sing to her family. Jewel toned illustrations add much to this vibrant story of her life.

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History featured Celia Cruz in a exhibit called Azucar! The Life and Music of Celia Cruz.

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Dizzy Gillespie, musician
Oct. 21, 1917-Jan. 6, 1993

Dizzy by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Arthur A Levine Books/Scholastic, 2006)

Everything changed the day Dizzy Gillespie's music teacher gave him a trumpet. From that moment on, Gillespie channeled all his feelings into his music. Jazz was his music and with it he created a whole new sound, BEBOP.

Drop by PBS.org to learn more about the man and his music from Ken Burns' Jazz.

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Ursula Le Guin, author
Oct. 21, 1929-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Best known for her Earthsea fantasy series, Le Guin is featured as "U" in this collective biography of women.

Visit Ursula LeGuin's web site to read more about the Earthsea series, current work and other facts.

October 20 Birthday: Charles Ives and Wanda Jackson

Charles Ives, musician
Oct. 20, 1874-May 19, 1954

What Charlie Heard by Mordicai Gerstein (Frances Foster/FSG, 2002)

A composer of innovative music, Charles Ives realized his dream at 77 years of age! What an inspiration. This is one of my all-time favorite picture book biographies.

Visit the Charles Ives Society web site for background information, works, and useful links.

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Wanda Jackson, musician
Oct. 20, 1937-

Shake, Rattle and Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)

A performer at nine, Jackson sang country for years. Until she sang with Elvis. Then she became known as the Queen of Rockabilly.

At Wanda Jackson.com you'll find tour dates, photos, biographical info and the latest news on Jackson.

October 18 Birthday: Chuck Berry

Chuck Berry, musician
Oct. 18, 1926-

Shake, Rattle and Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)

This collective biography includes a double page spread devoted to Berry. Chuck Berry learned to play the guitar as a teen and is still playing today. His first hit, Maybellene was in 1955. Go, Mr. Berry, Go!

The Official Site of Chuck Berry offers his bio, photos, song lyrics and more.

October 17 Birthdays: Mae Jemison and Jerry Siegel

Mae Jemison, astronaut
Oct. 17, 1956-

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Jemison, a medical doctor, was the first African American women astronaut. She flew on the Endeavor in 1992.

Check out the NASA Kids site for games, stories, activities and a cool kids' club.

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Jerry Siegel, writer
Oct. 17, 1914-Jan. 28, 1996

Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman by Marc Tyler Nobleman, illustrated by Ross MacDonald (Knopf, 2008)

Everyone will champion this story of ingenuity and perseverance. Together, mild-mannered and unassuming teens Jerry Siegel and Joe Schuster created the most inspiring and beloved comic book hero of all-time—Superman. Their struggles in the industry were heartbreaking and their successes equally phenomenal. A super read!

Click here, and faster than a speeding bullet, you can learn about planet Krypton, Superman’s birthplace.

October 16 Birthday: Princess Ka'iulani

Princess Ka'iulani, leader
Oct. 16, 1875-Mar. 6, 1899

The Last Princess: The Story of Princess Ka'iulani of Hawai'i by Fay Stanley, illustrated by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 2001)

Heir to the throne, the United States annexed Hawai'i before Ka'iluani would rule. This is the story of her all too brief life.

A photo of Ka'iulani and information about her can be found at a web site devoted to this Hawaiian royal.

October 14 Birthdays: Dwight Eisenhower and William Penn

Dwight Eisenhower, U.S. President
Oct. 14, 1890-Mar. 28, 1969

A Picture Book of Dwight Eisenhower by David A. Adler (Holiday House, 2004)

Opening with a 1945 parade in New York City at which General Eisenhower was given a medal, this book then highlights his childhood, West Point career, family life, WWII leadership and presidency.

The Dwight D. Eisenhower Library is the place to go for more information about this president.

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William Penn, colonist
Oct. 14, 1644-July 30, 1718

William Penn: Founder of Pennsylvania by Steven Kroll, illustrated by Ronald Himler (Holiday House, 2000)

This book about William Penn, a strong Quaker, is also a lesson about the history of his time.

Quaker.org writes about Penn's life and work.

October 13 Birthdays: Mary Kingsley and Art Tatum

Mary Kingsley, adventurer
Oct. 13, 1862-June 3, 1990

Uncommon Traveler: Mary Kingsley in Africa by Don Brown (Sagebrush, 2000)

Kingsley traveled through the pages of the books in her father's library as a child. Caregiver of her parents until the age of 30, upon their death, Kingsley traveled to Africa. When this British explorer returned to England, she wrote about her observations.

Living on Earth Today has an online profile of Mary Kingsley.

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Art Tatum, musician
Oct. 13, 1907-Nov. 5, 1956

Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum by Robert Andrew Parker (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2008)

Mostly self-taught, Tatum began playing the piano as a young child. Because of his poor eyesight, he could not participate in many activities. The piano was his refuge and strength. Word spread and soon he was playing in cafes, bars and the local radio station in his hometown of Toledo. Written in first person, this is a humble story of a gifted child who becomes one of the all-time jazz greats.

Watch and listen to Art Tatum play “Humoresque” on YouTube, his signature tune.

October 11 Birthday: Eleanor Roosevelt

Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and humanitarian
Oct. 11, 1884-Nov. 7, 1962

Eleanor by Barbara Cooney (Viking, 1996)

In spite of her painful childhood, Eleanor Roosevelt 's young adulthood was transformative. Readers will see signs of the greatness that was to come.

The Franklin Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum web site provides visitors a one page biography of the "First Lady of the World."

October 10: Giuseppe Verdi

Giuseppe Verdi
Oct. 10, 1813-Jan. 27, 1901

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

An opera composer from Italy, Verdi was playing the organ for his village by the age of ten. Aida and La Traviata are two of his most famous works.

The Edinboro University of Pennsylvania web site offers an online bio of Verdi as well as a list of his operas.

October 9 Birthday: John Lennon

John Lennon
Oct. 9, 1940-Dec. 8, 1980

John's Secret Dreams: The Life of John Lennon by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Hyperion, 2004)

In prose and song lyrics, John Lennon's life and music are examined in this tribute to a rock 'n' roll great.

The Official John Lennon web site offers a look at the history, bio, and discography of this famous Beatle.

October 8 Birthday: Faith Ringgold

Faith Ringgold, artist
Oct. 8,

Faith Ringgold by Robyn Montana Turner (Little Brown, 1993)

Famous for her "story quilts," this Caldecott Honor Medalist's (Tar Beach) life and art are on display in this book about this gifted African American woman.

Learn more about Ringgold and her work at her web site.

October 6 Birthday: Fannie Lou Hamer

Fannie Lou Hamer, activist
Oct. 6, 1917-Mar. 14, 1977

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Hamer was involved with voting rights in the 1960s in addition to being a champion for the poor and underpriviledged. The tombstone of this great African American woman reads, "I am sick and tired of being sick and tired."

Hamer was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1993.

October 5 Birthdays: Chester Arthur and Maya Lin

Chester Arthur, U.S. President
Oct. 5, 1829-Nov. 18, 1886

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Krull gives us a quick snapshot of the 21st U.S president, nicknamed "Elegant Arthur," in her collective biography of U.S. leaders.

For a look at all of the U.S. Presidents, go to The White House web site links.

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Maya Lin, architect
Oct. 5, 1959-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005

Most famous for designing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lin, "M"is for Maya in this collective biography about women who've made a difference.

The Official web site of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. is operated by the National Park Service.

October 4 Birthdays: Rutherford B. Hayes, Buster Keaton and St. Francis

Rutherford B. Hayes, U.S. President
Oct. 4, 1822-Jan. 17, 1893

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Krull sums up Hayes' contributions in one paragraph in this collective biography. The 19th president's phone number was "1."

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center invites visitors to learn more about this former president.

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Buster Keaton, actor
Oct. 4, 1895-Feb. 1, 1966

Keep Your Eye on the Kid: The Early Years of Buster Keaton by Catherine Brighton (Roaring Brook Press, 2008)

Born into a vaudeville family, Keaton was nicknamed “Buster” because he could take a fall. And fall he did, over and over again onstage when he was a child. Audiences loved him. When Buster saw his first movie, he fell even harder. Eventually he made it to Hollywood and became a great comedic screen actor and movie-maker. Written in first person, this story is a class act.

The International Buster Keaton Society provides news, a biography, articles, and other resources related to this remarkable man.

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St. Francis
Oct. 4 is St. Francis' Feast Day
c. 1181/1182-Oct. 3, 1226

Francis: Poor Man of Assisi by Tomie dePaola (Holiday House, 1990)

Wealthy by birth, Francis gave away his possessions to help the poor and become a protector of animals.

The Catholic Encyclopedia writes about St. Francis.

October 2 Birthday: Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi
Oct. 2, 1869-Jan. 30, 1948

Gandhi by Demi (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2001)

The life of this extraordinary leader who fought "the disease of prejudice" through nonviolent means is accompanied by stunning illustrations.

The Mahatma Gandhi.org web site provides additional information about Ghandi; his life, his work and his philosophy.

October 1 Birthday: Jimmy Carter

James Earl "Jimmy" Carter, U.S. President
Oct. 1, 1924-

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Carter was a peanut farmer and a former governor of Georgia prior to taking office. This 39th president was and is an advocate for the homeless.

Visit the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, Georgia for more information.

September 30 Birthday: Elie Wiesel

Elie Wiesel, writer, humanitarian
Sept. 30, 1928-

Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World by Jane Breskin Zalben (Dutton, 2006)

Holocaust survivor and Nobel Peace Prize winner 1986 Wiesel is highlighted in this important collective biography about peacemakers.

Read a riviting interview with Wiesel on the Academy of Achievement-A Museum of Living History web site.

September 29 Birthdays: Miguel de Cervantes and Jerry Lee Lewis

Miguel de Cervantes, writer
Sept. 29, 1547-Apr. 23, 1616

Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt Harcourt, 1994)

Most famous for his book Don Quixote, Cervantes takes the stage in this collective biography.

The Cervantes Project hosted by Texas A&M University offers bio info, images, bibliographies and more.

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Jerry Lee Lewis, musician
Sept. 29, 1935

Shake, Rattle and Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)

The ultimate showman, Lewis was raised in Louisiana and started playing the piano at age eight. In 1956 his careet took off.

Lewis' Official Web site offers additional information. Or visit the Rock and Roll Fall of Fame to read more about this 1986 inductee.

September 26 Birthdays: Johnny Appleseed and George Gershwin

Johnny Appleseed aka John Chapman, ecologist
Sept. 26, 1774-Mar. 1847

Johnny Appleseed by Steven Kellogg (HarperCollins, 1988)

Kellogg blends fact with fiction in this story about an American icon. I love the illustrations—big and lush.

Note: There are many, many books published about Johnny Appleseed. This is one of my favorites.

Read an article about Chapman from Harper's New Monthly Magazine from 1871 posted on Cornell's web site.

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George Gershwin, composer
Sept. 26,1898-July 11, 1937

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

Gershwin wrote Broadway show tunes galore. Thanks, George (and your brother, Ira, too,) for Rhapsody in Blue, Swanee, I Got Rhythm and more.

Visit the Official Web site of George and Ira Gershwin.

September 23 Birthday: Ray Charles

Ray Charles, musician
Sept. 23, 1930-June 10, 2004

The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2001)

What would we do without Georgia On My Mind? In this collective biography of ten greats, Ray Charles soars.

Ray Charles.com highlights the man, the music, the legacy, the movie and more.

Unknown Birthday: Chingis Khan

Chingis Khan by Demi (Holt, 1991)

A story of the Mongul leader who reigned over the largest empire assembled in the lifetime of one individual.

From the Office of Resources for International and Area Studies at UC Berkeley, comes an amazing curriculum unit on Chingis Khan.

September 19 Birthday: Sadie Delany

Sadie Delany, teacher and author
Sept. 19, 1889-Jan. 25, 1999

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Sadie Delany was the first African American home ec teacher in a NYC high school. She shares the page in this collective biography with her sister Bessie Delany.These two remarkable sisters wrote the story of their lives. Their book, Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years, became a best seller.

A short bio of Sadie Delany's life can be read at Columbia's site.

September 17 Birthdays: Maureen Connolly and Jacob Lawrence

Maureen Connolly, athlete
Sept. 17, 1934-June 21, 1969

Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

Tennis anyone? Maureen Connolly was the first woman to win the "grand slam" of tournaments: Wimbledon, French Open, Australian Open and U.S. Open.

Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame for additional information on "Little Mo" and other tennis greats.

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Jacob Lawrence, painter
Sept. 17, 1917-June 9, 2000

Story Painter: The Life of Jacob Lawrence by John Diggleby (Chronicle, 1998)

Lawrence, an accomplished African American painter who grew up in Harlem fostered his talent at a young age and by 30 was considered an incredible talent. A story of determination.

The University of Washington site has excellent bio and links.

September 16 Birthdays: Nadia Boulanger and B.B. King

Nadia Boulanger, composer
Sept. 16, 1887-Oct. 22, 1979

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

A composer and teacher, Boulanger's nickname was "Tender Tyrant." Among her famous pupils were Aaron Copland and Philip Glass.

Visit the Nadia Boulanger web site for more information about this influencial woman.

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B.B. King, musician
Sept. 16, 1925-

The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2001)

Guitarist and songwriter B. B. King made his first hit record in 1952. And he's been recording ever since.

Visit the Official B.B. King web site for more info on B.B. King and his famous guitar named "Lucille."

September 15 Birthday: William Howard Taft

William Howard Taft, U.S. President
Sept. 15, 1857-Mar. 8, 1930

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Nicknamed Sleeping Beauty, this largest U.S. president learned to surf in Hawaii. Krull devotes one pithy page about number 27 in this collective biography.

Read his inaugural address, March 4, 1909 on The Avalon Project web site at Yale.

September 13 Birthday: Clara Schumann

Clara Schumann, musician
Sept. 13, 1819-May 20, 1896

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

Pianist and composer in Romantic era, her career spanned sixty years. She had a major influence on the music of Johannes Brahams and her husband, Robert Schumann.

Timelines of Schumann's childhood and youth, marriage with Robert Schumann, and her later years are available at a Rutger's site.

September 12 Birthday: Jessie Owens

Jesse Owens, athlete
Sept. 12, 1913-Mar. 31, 1980

Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

In poor health as a child, Jesse Owens took up running. And never stopped. This talented African American track and field star shined at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, and beyond.

Visit the Official Jesse Owens Web Site today.

September 8 Birthday: Ruby Bridges

Ruby Bridges, civil rights advocate
Sept. 8, 1954-

The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles, illustrated by George C. Ford (Scholastic, 2004) paperback

Court-ordered desegregation made six-year old African American Ruby Bridges' walk into an all-white New Orleans school possible. Thank you, Ruby Bridges!

To learn more about Ruby's remarkable story, visit the Ruby Bridges Foundation.

September 3 Birthday: Bessie Delany

Bessie Delany, dentist and author
Sept. 3, 1891- Sept. 25,1995

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Bessie Delany, who lived to be 104, came to national attention when she and her sister and a New York Times reporter collaborated on the story of her and her sister's life: Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years. Delany was the second African American woman to become a dentist in NY.

For more information about the Delany sisters, visit the Having Our Say web site.

Unknown Birthday: Alia Muhammed Baker

Alia Muhammed Baker, librarian
20th century-

The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq by Jeanette Winter (Harcourt, 2005)

What courage! This is the story of a librarian's daring rescue of books from her library in Basra during the war in Iraq. Until there is peace, the collection will remain in her care.

Read an interview with Jeanette Winter about the writing of this book.

August 30 Birthday: Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley, author
Aug. 30, 1797-Feb. 1, 1851

Through the Tempests Dark and Wild: A Story of Mary Shelley, Creator of Frankenstein by Sharon Darrow, illustrated by Angela Barrett (Candlewick, 2003)

Focused on the teen years "where some believe that Mary's famous novel took root" this fictionalized picture book biography is a moving account of Shelley, who published her renowned Gothic at the age of nineteen.

A Wikipedia biography of Mary Shelley with additional links is available.

Read an interview with author Sharon Darrow (includes questions related to Through the Tempests) at Cynthia Leitich Smith's blog.

August 29 Birthday: Charlie Parker

Charlie Parker, musician
Aug. 29, 1920-Mar. 12, 1955

Charlie Parker Played Be Bop by Chris Raschka (Scholastic, 1992)

The words feel like they're bouncing off the pages of this lively picture book biography of the master of be bop. A read-aloud must.

Visit the Official Site of Charlie "Yardbird" Parker.

August 27 Birthday: Lyndon Baines Johnson

Lyndon Baines Johnson, U.S. President
Aug. 27, 1908-Jan. 22, 1973

Lives of Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Although the Vietnam War dominated the 36th president's two terms of office, Johnson's legacy also includes important Civil Rights legislation.

Fantastic resources about LBJ and his presidency are available at the LBJ Library and Museum Kids Homepage

August 24 Birthday: Duke Kahanamoku

Duke Kahanamoku, athlete
Aug. 24, 1890-Jan. 22, 1968

Duke's Olympic Feet by Ellie Crowe (Island Heritage, 2002)

Duke Kahanamoku is known by many names: The Ambassador of Aloha, father of surfing, and Olympic swimmer. In this gloriously illustrated picture book biography, Kahanamoku's challenges as an untrained swimmer who not only participated in the 1912 Olympics, but won a Gold Medal are recorded. Additionally, how Kahanamoku introduced surfing to Australia is chronicled.

Visit the Surfing Museum bio link for more information about Kahanamoku.

August 20 Birthday: Benjamin Harrison

Benjamin Harrison, U.S. President
Aug. 20, 1833-Mar. 13, 1901

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

"Human Iceberg" Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd U.S. president and grandson of a president is highlighted in one paragraph in this collective biography.

See a snapshot biography of Benjamin Harrison at the White House Kids site.

August 19 Birthdays: William "Bill" Clinton and Orville Wright

William "Bill" Clinton, U.S. President
Aug. 19, 1946-

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

The jazz sax playing 42nd president of the U.S. is highlighted in humor and fact within the pages of this collective biography.

To learn more about Clinton and his presidency, visit the Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock, Arkansas.

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Orville Wright, pioneer of flight
Aug. 19, 1871-Jan. 30, 1948

Into the Air: The Story of the Wright Brothers' First Flight by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Bill Wylie (Silver Whistle/Harcourt, 2002)

Trial and error. And lots of perseverance and smarts. That's what it took to get the first successful flying machine off the ground. Comic-book style art brings the Wright's triumph to life.

Find an online biography of Wright at NASA as well as information at the Wright Brothers National Memorial.